With Nollywood delivering captivating films, it’s the perfect time to catch up on some of its most talked-about releases. These movies aren’t just entertaining—they represent powerful storytelling and groundbreaking narratives that continue to push the boundaries of Nigerian cinema. Before the year ends, indulge in these cinematic gems for their unique perspectives on life, culture, history, and imagination. Here are ten must-watch Nollywood films, each offering a unique experience you won’t want to miss!
1. The Beads
Directed by Moyinoluwa Ezekiel and starring Zainab Balogun, Adedimeji Lateef, Shaffy Bello, Efa Iwara, Idowu Phillips, Segun Arinze, Chioma Omeruah, and Tina Mba, “The Beads” revolves around Ranti, a bride-to-be, who eagerly awaits her wedding day—a celebration of love and the start of a new life. However, this seemingly joyous occasion quickly turns sinister as she finds herself caught in an inexplicable time loop. Each morning she wakes up to her wedding day, and each night she faces a tragic end. Desperate to understand her predicament and survive, Ranti delves into the mysteries surrounding her fate and the ominous significance of her wedding beads. As her family and friends remain unaware of her torment, she realizes she alone must uncover the truth and escape this relentless cycle. But can she find the answers before time—and her life—runs out?
Why you should watch
“The Beads” is a Nollywood thriller that blends Nigerian mysticism with psychological suspense, following a bride trapped in a deadly time loop on her wedding day. Each repeat tests her will to survive and break free, making it a gripping story of fate, family, and tradition. With rich performances and a unique take on the thriller genre, this film is a captivating watch that has quickly become a favourite on Prime Video—a perfect addition to your year-end movie list.
2. Farmer’s Bride
Starring Tobi Bakre, Gbubemi Ejeye, Femi Branch, Mercy Aigbe, Efe Irele, Wumi Toriola and others, and directed by Takeshi Koga, “Farmer’s Bride” tells the story of Funmi. Odun, an affluent farmer in Ibadan, finds himself without family or companionship and decides to take a young woman, Funmi, as his bride. However, Funmi’s heart lies elsewhere, and the marriage quickly becomes a stifling experience for her. She grows resentful of her role and is eventually drawn into an affair with Odun’s nephew, a relationship that challenges both social norms and family loyalty. This betrayal unleashes a chain of events with deadly and supernatural repercussions, setting the stage for a gripping exploration of love’s darker side.
Why you should watch
Set against the vivid backdrop of 1980s Nigeria, “Farmer’s Bride” delivers a raw and compelling portrayal of love, betrayal, and social expectations, with powerful performances from Nollywood stars.
3. Queen Lateefah
Directed by Adeoluwa Owu and starring Wumi Toriola, Kunle Remi, Lateef Adedimeji, Nancy Isime, Salami Rotimi, and Aisha Lawal, “Queen Lateefah” follows a young woman whose beauty and charm grant her the nickname “Queen”. However, beneath her allure lies a complicated past and a web of secrets. As she navigates the complexities of love, societal expectations, and personal ambition, the story explores her attempts to balance her facade with her true self. Her journey involves encounters with love interests, betrayals, and the repercussions of the life she has chosen. The film dives into how one’s true identity can be overshadowed by the desire to fit into societal moulds, exploring what happens when a person’s ideal image begins to crumble.
Why you should watch
“Queen Lateefah” is a major Nollywood hit of 2024, blending romance and deception in a story that explores love, identity, and societal expectations. Its record-breaking box-office success reflects the film’s appeal and Nollywood’s growing influence. A must-watch for staying current with Nigerian cinema’s evolution on the global stage.
4. Hijack ’93
Directed by Robert O. Peters and starring Bob Manuel Udokwu, John Dumelo, Nancy Isime, Sharon Ooja, Jemima Osunde, Efa Iwara, Adam Garba, Allison Emmanuel and other, “Hijack ’93”, set against the tense political landscape of early 1990s Nigeria, presents a fictional retelling of a real hijacking incident involving four Nigerian youths. Frustrated by the oppressive military regime, these young men take drastic measures by hijacking a Nigerian Airways flight, hoping to bring global attention to their grievances. Their actions lead to a tense standoff filled with suspense, moral conflict, and introspection as they weigh the cost of their choices.
Why you should watch
This film taps into a crucial yet often overlooked chapter of Nigerian history, shedding light on the lengths youth can go to make their voices heard. With a blend of high-stakes action and emotional depth, “Hijack ’93” not only entertains but also prompts viewers to reflect on themes of rebellion, patriotism, and the price of change.
5. 3 Working Days
In “3 Working Days”, directed by Jerry Ossai and starring Deyemi Okanlawon, Nancy Isime, Uzor Arukwe, Femi Adebayo, Victor Osuagwu and others, a frustrated man, plagued by financial struggles, reaches his breaking point when a delayed transaction leaves him in crisis. In a moment of desperation, he storms into a bank, taking hostages and demanding the swift resolution of his financial issues. His plan to regain control over his life takes an unexpected twist when he encounters a gang of professional robbers who are executing a meticulously planned heist at the same bank. With hostages caught between two opposing forces, tension mounts as both the man and the gang find themselves in a dangerous stand-off. Each day heightens the stakes, testing the resilience, motives, and humanity of all involved as they navigate an escalating life-and-death scenario within the bank’s walls.
Why you should watch
“3 Working Days” is a high-stakes thriller that follows a desperate man caught in a bank hostage situation that quickly spirals when he collides with a gang on a heist. With suspenseful twists and themes of resilience under pressure, this action-driven drama is a top Nollywood pick for 2024, resonating with audiences through its social relevance and intense storytelling.
6. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti
Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters and starring Kehinde Bankole, Joke Silva, Adunni Ade, Adebayo Salami, Omowunmi Dada, Jide Kosoko and co, “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” follows the inspiring journey of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pioneering Nigerian educator, women’s rights advocate, and political activist. The film traces her life from her formative years as one of the first educated women in Nigeria through her marriage to Reverend Israel Ransome-Kuti. Set against the backdrop of colonial Nigeria, the story highlights her leadership role in the Abeokuta Women’s Union, where she led powerful protests against oppressive taxation and advocated for women’s rights. Funmilayo’s activism extends beyond Nigeria, as she collaborates with other global leaders in the fight for social justice, confronting both colonial authorities and traditional patriarchal structures.
Why you should watch
“Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” is a powerful biopic that celebrates one of Nigeria’s most iconic activists. The film captures her fearless fight against colonial rule, gender inequality, and social injustice, particularly through her leadership in the historic Abeokuta Women’s Union protests. With compelling storytelling and outstanding performances, it’s an inspiring history lesson.
7. Beast of Two Worlds
“Beast of Two Worlds” (also known as Ajakaju) follows the dramatic story of a powerful king caught between supernatural forces and the influence of formidable women who control his destiny across two realms. Cursed by mystical forces, the king’s life is constantly manipulated by these powerful figures, each exerting influence over his choices and challenging his sovereignty. As he navigates a path filled with betrayal, dark rituals, and mysterious powers, the film delves into themes of fate, loyalty, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. It is directed by Odunlade Jonathan Adekola and Adebayo Tijani and stars Odunlade Adekola, Eniola Ajao, Fathia Balogun, Sola Sobowale, Mercy Aigbe, Ibrahim Chatta, among others.
Why you should watch
“Beast of Two Worlds” (or Ajakaju) weaves Nigerian folklore with supernatural drama around a cursed king’s fate. With record-breaking box-office success, this unique story captivates with its powerful performances and culturally rich storyline.
8. Tòkunbò
In this film directed by Ramsey Nouah and starring Gideon Okeke, Chidi Mokeme, Funlola Aofiyebi-Raimi, Majid Michel, Nobert Young, and Adunni Ade, the lead character, an ex-car smuggler, finds himself trapped in a desperate mission. Threatened by criminals who hold his family hostage, he must transport a high-profile government official’s daughter to an unknown captor within a tight timeframe. As he navigates the criminal underworld with limited options, every moment brings him closer to either success or tragedy, while his choices raise questions about sacrifice, loyalty, and survival.
Why you should watch
“Tòkunbò” captures the tension and danger of navigating the criminal underworld, offering intense performances and high-stakes drama.
9. Dead Serious
Directed by Moses Inwang, “Dead Serious” stars Sharon Ooja, Sabinus, Nkem Owoh, Deyemi Okanlawon, Lillian Afegbai, Funky Mallam, and Emem Inwang. In “Dead Serious”, Sharon Ooja plays a character whose love life gets complicated when her father disapproves of her boyfriend, played by Sabinus, due to his lack of wealth. However, her father’s youthful, wealthy boss (portrayed by Deyemi Okanlawon) starts vying for her attention, complicating things further. This dynamic creates a hilarious clash of love, status, and family expectations, delivering both laughs and heartfelt moments as the protagonist navigates her feelings and family pressures in a distinctly Nigerian setting.
Why you should watch
“Dead Serious” is a delightful Nollywood rom-com that adds a funny twist to Valentine’s season. Centred on a young woman in a love triangle between her modest boyfriend and her father’s wealthy boss, the film offers humour and heartfelt moments, making it an ideal, feel-good watch to close out the year.
10. A Man’s Cry
Osondu, a successful businessman, finally finds happiness with Ogechi, the love of his life, after years of searching. Their marriage seems perfect—until their first anniversary takes an unexpected, tragic turn, landing them both in the hospital. Just as Osondu begins to rebuild hope, he faces another devastating blow when Ogechi mysteriously disappears from her workplace. Amid his heartbreak, Becky, an attractive new acquaintance, steps into his life, offering comfort and companionship. Torn between holding onto the hope that Ogechi will return and moving forward with Becky, Osondu confronts the painful choices life forces upon him.
Why you should watch
“A Man’s Cry”, directed by Frederick Leonard and starring Frederick Leonard, Adunni Ade, Ruby Okezie and others, is a powerful Nollywood drama that addresses the silent struggles and emotional challenges that men face in relationships and society. It comes with standout performances and a storyline that brings attention to often-overlooked emotional battles that men face.
